Balucharis are known for their youthful, ultra-feminine appeal, to which this one is no exception. It is fashioned from pure homegrown silk, like all Balucharis are, which gives it a dynamic sheen. While the colour of crushed, barely ripe figs may not be a traditional bridal colour, it is a perfect one to be worn by the bride’s or the groom’s sister. Indeed this saree has just the right bit of embroidery - nothing too fancy; a simple statement of traditional elegance.

Every Baluchari is set apart by the embroidery on the endpiece. The theme is usually a popular episode from any of the itihasas. In a twist of the contemporary, this one comes with simple apsara motifs. Zoom in on the panels to appreciate the attention and precision with which the heavenly beauties have been depicted in the midst of their music-making, dance, and shringar routines. More of the apsaras are sparsely woven onto the field of the saree. Team this Baluchari with the best of your mother’s gold and jewel hand-me-downs.